According to recently released data from the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), auto theft costs in Alberta have increased significantly over the last three years and continued to rise last year.
"Auto theft claims costs were $110.3 million in 2024 compared to $67.0 million in 2021, an increase of 65 per cent," shared IBC.
The hardest-hit cities are Calgary and Edmonton, where auto theft claim costs rose by 81 per cent and 79 per cent, respectively, between 2021 and 2024.
Looking at the longer-term trend, since 2014, IBC explained that auto theft costs across the province have risen by 161 per cent.
“The auto theft crisis persists in Alberta at a time when the province’s auto insurance system is already under tremendous strain from tariffs, inflation, growing legal costs, and rising vehicle repair and replacement costs,” said Aaron Sutherland, Vice-President, Pacific and Western, IBC. “The provincial government took an important step last fall when announcing significant auto insurance reforms. But much more is needed, including more measures to curb auto theft.”
The top five cities by increase in auto theft claims from 2021 to 2024 include Airdrie's neighbour Calgary, Edmonton, Grande Prairie, Fort McMurray and Medicine Hat.
"The Alberta government has begun to take steps to address the auto theft issue, including only allowing people with an Alberta driver’s licence or ID to register a vehicle for someone else. This is a positive early step, but it is not enough."
Alberta’s auto insurers are calling on the provincial government to take the following steps:
- Prohibit the vehicle information number (VIN) override function at registries.
- Update and standardize vehicle bills of sale.
- Restrict third-party vehicle registrations to dealerships.
- Implement an Insurance Validation Program (IVP).
“Addressing the auto theft crisis requires urgent action on multiple fronts,” said Sutherland. “By working together with governments, law enforcement, and other stakeholders, we can help ensure that Alberta’s drivers are better protected against the scourge of auto theft.”
Alberta RCMP recently sent out a few tips to reduce auto-related theft this summer:
- Keep your vehicle locked: While relaxing at your campsite or taking a walk by the water, keep your vehicle locked. It only takes one moment of inattention for a thief to take your belongings.
- Never leave your vehicle running unattended: Opportunistic thieves can strike anywhere, a quick pop into the convenience store for a Slurpee, or just running into the bank, is all the time someone needs to steal a running vehicle.
- Keep keys safe: Never leave keys, garage door openers, or important documents with personal identifying information in your vehicle. Keys can be used to steal your vehicle, or may be used, along with personal identifying information, to enter your home.
- Hide or lock up valuables: Keep your campsite clean and ensure valuables are hidden out of sight, as they can entice opportunistic thieves. Keep off-highway vehicles (OHV), bikes, and kayaks secured and consider using window covers to conceal the interior of your vehicle.
- Close windows: When leaving your vehicle, always close the windows, even when it’s hot outside. A locked screen door to a recreational vehicle can provide added security while allowing airflow.
- Use a hitch lock: Secure your trailer’s hitch with a hitch lock to prevent towing theft.
- Motion sensor lights: Install motion sensor lights outside your recreational vehicle.
Recently, a study showcased what the most stolen vehicles are in Alberta.
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